Musharraf vows support for Scotland Yard in Bhutto death probe
By Xinhua
Islamabad : The detectives from Scotland Yard, now in Pakistan to assist with the probe into the recent assassination of Benazir Bhutto, would be provided maximum support and information, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf said Saturday.
"Maximum support and information would be provided to the Scotland Yard team for them to carry out the investigation independently," local TV Dawn News quoted Musharraf as saying.
Anti-al-Qaida leader killed in N Baghdad
By Xinhua
Baghdad : Gunmen killed a leader of Awakening Council group in a northern Baghdad neighborhood on Sunday, a well-informed police source said.
"Ismael Abbas, one of the leaders of Awakening Council groups of the Sha'ab neighborhood was killed when unknown gunmen in a civilian car showered him with bullets," the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.
Iran says Bush’s Middle East trip aimed at “interfering”
By Xinhua
Tehran : Iran said on Sunday that U.S. President George W. Bush's planned trip to the Middle East was aimed at interfering in relations among regional states.
"We consider such a trip as interference in the relations of the countries in the region and propaganda," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini told reporters during his weekly briefing.
He also said that Bush's trip will be an attempt to "compensate America's failed policies" in the Middle East region.
Spokesman: Iran has no plan to normalize ties with U.S.
By Xinhua
Tehran : Iran has no immediate plan to normalize relations with the United States, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini told reporters during his weekly briefing on Sunday.
"Due to continuation of hostile U.S. policies against Iran, Tehran has no program for normalizing ties with Washington and that is not in our agenda," Hosseini said.
Final report on Israel-Hezbollah conflict to be released on Jan. 30
By Xinhua
Jerusalem : Israeli Winograd Commission probing the conduct of the Second Lebanon War announced on Sunday that it would present its final report on Wednesday, Jan. 30.
Local news website Ynet quoted sources close to the commission as saying that the report "will be harsh and will be presented to the public, so it may decide for itself who should be held responsible for the war's failures."
Pakistan launches new operation in Swat Valley
By DPA
Islamabad : The Pakistan Army launched a new military operation Sunday to clear out armed Islamic militants spotted in remote areas of the strife-torn Swat Valley in the northwest, where hundreds have died in two months of clashes.
An undisclosed number of soldiers were involved in land and air operations between the towns of Matta and Chuprial after local residents reported that small bands of militants were looting and terrorizing villages.
Hamas: West Bank detentions strike Hamas-Fatah reconciliation efforts
By Xinhua
Ramallah : Islamic Hamas movement on Sunday considered detentions against its members in West Bank by Palestinian security forces as "an early strike to the Arab efforts" to bring Hamas and Fatah to dialogue.
The security forces, loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah, last night arrested 35 members of Islamic Hamas in West Bank including two leaders who were held for seven hours. It was one of the largest crackdowns against Hamas since last June.
Sources: Abbas, Olmert to meet ahead Bush’s visit to the region
By Xinhua
Ramallah : A well-informed Palestinian source announced on Sunday that President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert will hold a meeting in Jerusalem this week.
The source at Abbas office in Ramallah, who spoke in condition of anonymity, said the meeting between the two men, will be held before the scheduled visit of U.S. President George W. Bush to the region on Wednesday.
Iraq’s al-Qaida gunmen kidnap tribal leader, 13 of his family members
By Xinhua
Baghdad : Dozens of al-Qaida gunmen in Iraq attacked the house of a tribal chieftain in Diyala province, northeast of Baghdad, kidnapping him and 13 of his family members, a provincial police source said on Sunday.
"Dozens of the Qaida gunmen stormed the house of Sheik Dhari Wahab al-Mandeel, a key leader of the Obeid clan in the Tahwilah village near the town of Khalis on Saturday night," the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.
Former negotiator: Post-Annapolis talks to fail if Bush ignores Israeli settlements
By Xinhua
Ramallah : A former Palestinian negotiator warned on Sunday that Israeli-Palestinian peace talks can't go ahead if U.S. President George W. Bush could not translate the results of Annapolis peace conference into actions on the ground.
Bush is to visit the region next week to push the talks that were launched following the U.S.-hosted peace forum which was held in November. The continuation of Israeli settlement activities in West Bank blocks the progress of the discussions.
Palestinian factions downplay Bush’s Middle East visit
By Xinhua
Gaza : Palestinian factions downplayed on Sunday U.S. President George W. Bush's upcoming visit to the Palestinian territories as part of his Middle East tour.
Fawzi Barhoom, spokesman for the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) said, "Bush's promises of creating a Palestinian statehood are illusions that won't come true."
During Bush's first ever visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, the U.S. president is expected to promote Palestinian-Israeli peace talks which was relaunched at U.S.-hosted Annapolis peace conference last November.
Iranian envoy: Pakistan, Iran to finalize gas pipeline project by Jan. 25
By Xinhua
Islamabad : Iranian ambassador to Islamabad Mash Allah Shakeri has said that Pakistan and Iran are set to finalize an agreement on the multi-billion-dollar gas pipeline project by Jan. 25 this year, according to a report by the private NNI news agency Sunday.
The Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline project is one of the most important economic projects of the region, which would bring extensive benefits for the three countries, said Shakeri.
Car bomb kills 3 in northern Baghdad
By Xinhua
Baghdad : A car bomb went off in a northern Baghdad neighborhood on Sunday killed three people and wounded 13 others, an Interior Ministry source said.
The car bomb parked on a main road in the neighborhood of Qahirah detonated after midday, killing three people, including a policeman, and wounding 13 others, the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.
Egypt welcomes Arab foreign ministers agreement on solution to Lebanese crisis
By Xinhua
Cairo : Egypt on Sunday hailed an Arab foreign ministers agreement on a solution to the Lebanese crisis, Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul Gheit said in a statement.
In the press statement received by Xinhua, Abul Gheit noted that the Arab foreign ministers consultative meeting held on Saturday evening achieved its goal to help the Lebanese disputing political parties to reach an agreement over Lebanese president.
Olmert: Israel to step up operation against rocket attacks
By Xinhua
Jerusalem : Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said Sunday that Israeli army was ordered to step up its operation to halt the ongoing firing of rockets from the Gaza Strip.
"We will continue to respond, to initiate and to harm anyone who carries out launches from Gaza," Olmert told ministers at the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem.
"We will continue to invest in reinforcing the towns in the Gaza envelope to help them deal with these terror threats," he added.
Palestinian security detains 35 Hamas members in fresh W.Bankcrackdown
By Xinhua
Ramallah : Palestinian security forces arrested 35 Hamas members in West Bank, including two prominent leaders who had been released after brief detention, the Islamic movement said on Sunday.
"In Ramallah, the security services detained Sheikh Hussein AbuKwaik and Sheikh Faraj Romana, leaders of Hamas in the city," Hamas said in a statement faxed to the press.
Israeli air force kills Palestinian militant in Gaza
By Xinhua
Gaza : Israeli air force attacked a group of Palestinian militants early Sunday in eastern Gaza city, killing one and wounding two others, medical sources said.
According to Hamas, the pre-dawn air strike targeted a joint group of its fighters and militants from the Popular Resistance Committees (PRC), an armed group comprising fighters from several factions, killing Mohammed al-Rab'i, 36, and moderately wounding two others.
Suicide bomber hits neighborhood municipal council in Baghdad, four killed
By Xinhua
Baghdad : A suicide bomber blew himself up in the municipal council of Karrada neighborhood in Baghdad on Sunday, killing at least four people and wounding seven others, an Interior Ministry source said.
Arab FMs meet on Palestinian, Lebanese issues
By Xinhua
Cairo : Arab foreign ministers started an extraordinary meeting here on Sunday morning to discuss the Palestinian-Israeli peace negotiations as well as the Lebanese crisis.
The Arab foreign ministerial meeting held here at the headquarters of the Arab League was initiated at the request of Egypt and Saudi Arabia, the current Arab summit chairman.
Iran envoy hopes for early gas pipeline accord
By Xinhua
Islamabad : Iranian ambassador to Islamabad Mash Allah Shakeri has said that Pakistan and Iran are set to finalise an agreement on the multi-billion-dollar gas pipeline project by Jan 25, NNI news agency reported Sunday.
The Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline project is one of the most important economic projects of the region, and it would bring extensive benefits for the three countries, Shakeri was quoted as saying.
The Iranian envoy described the measures taken by Pakistan and Iran as indications of their firm will for the execution of the project.
Palestine security detains 35 Hamas members
By Xinhua
Ramallah : Palestinian security forces have arrested 35 Hamas members in the West Bank, including two prominent leaders, the Islamic movement said Sunday.
"In Ramallah, the security services detained Sheikh Hussein Abu Kwaik and Sheikh Faraj Romana, both are Hamas leaders, but were released later," Hamas said in a statement.
The rest of the 33 members have been detained, the statement said, adding that they were taken into custody from Jenin, Salfit and Tulkarem cities and northern Ramallah territories.
Iran expels German diplomat
By IANS
Tehran : Iran has expelled a German diplomat for "undiplomatic" activities, foreign ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini said here Sunday.
He told reporters during his weekly briefing that the authorities had expelled the diplomat after they found that "the German national was involved in undiplomatic activities", official IRNA news agency reported Sunday.
However, Hosseini refused to give details about the expulsion. He didn't also say whether the diplomat has already left the country.
Jailed former Bangladesh PM Sheikha Hasina plans US visit for medical
By KUNA
New Delhi : Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikha Hasina is planning to visit the United States for medical treatment, following deterioration in her health while in custody.
"Hasina's eyes and ears could face serious damage and she needs intensive treatment," one of Bangladeshs leading English daily New Age reported Sunday quoting Dr Syed Modasser Ali, one of the four physicians attending on her.
Amnesty International calls upon Bangladesh government to try war criminals
By KUNA
New Delhi : International human rights body Amnesty International (AI) has called upon Bangladesh's military-backed caretaker government to try its war criminals -- who allegedly joined hands with the then Pakistan government during the countrys liberation war in 1971.
AI wanted the present government to initiate the process of trying the war criminals at the earliest, AI secretary general Irene Khan told reporters at Dhaka Saturday night, news agency Indo Asian News Service reported Sunday.
14-year-old Palestinian killed in Israeli incursion
By KUNA
Gaza : A Palestinian child lost his life in an Israeli incursion that targeted fringes of the Palestinian shanty town of Al-Bureij in central Gaza on Sunday.
Medical sources said Ziad Abu Rekbah, 14, was killed with Israeli sniper fire during the operation, adding that four Palestinians were also wounded and hospitalized.
The Palestinian was killed in the Israeli operation, carried out under cover of a hail of gunfire.
Two missiles fired from northern Gaza target Negev region — spokesman
By KUNA
Gaza : A couple of missiles were fired from north Gaza Strip targeting southern Israel, Israeli Army said on Sunday.
The army spokesman told the Israeli radio the two missiles, unleashed late on Saturday, landed in an open area in Negev region, near the strip, leaving no causalities or damage.
Separately, an armed Palestinian group fired, late last night, eight mortar shells in the direction of southern Israel. One of them landed in the town of Sderot, injuring a resident, panicking others and damaging nearby cars, the spokesman added.
GCC health ministers meet Tuesday on boosting cooperation
By KUNA
Riyadh : The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Health Ministers' Council will hold its 64th regular session in Riyadh on Tuesday to discuss means of boosting health cooperation among the member states.
The council will discuss a detailed report on the activities of its Executive Bureau and its achievements during the past session, Executive Bureau Director General, Dr. Tawfiq Khoja, said in a statement here on Sunday.
Israeli force carries out ground assault in Gaza
By KUNA
Gaza : Advancing under cover of a hail of gunfire, heavily-armed Israeli military forces carried out an incursion into eastern fringes of the Palestinian shanty town of Al-Bureij in the center of Gaza Strip on Sunday.
Witnesses told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) the troops, equipped with tanks, military vehicles and bulldozers, reached locations around the refugee camp after advancing from nearby positions, with gunship helicopters roaring over the advancing force.
Israeli gunship helicopters raid Palestinian targets killing one guerrilla
By KUNA
Gaza : Israeli gunship helicopters raided Palestinian targets in Gaza Strip early on Sunday killing one Palestinian guerrilla and wounding several others, security and medical sources said.
The sources said the multi-winged aircraft rocketed several locations in the east and north of the strip, including the region of Al-Shujaieh east of Gaza city, killing one Palestinian fighter and wounding a number of other gunmen. Several rockets crashed into advance positions manned by the guerrillas who were on a night watch mission.
Arab FMs agree on integrated plan on Lebanon — Moussa
By KUNA
Cairo : Secretary-General of the Arab League Amr Moussa said here on Saturday that the Arab foreign ministers agreed at the emergency meeting tonight that shifted from a consultative meeting to a formal meeting on an Arab integrated plan unanimously issued with respect to developments in the situation in Lebanon.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah headed the Kuwaiti delegation to the meeting.
General Mohayya receives Jordanian Navy Commander
By SPA
Riyadh : The Chief of the General Staff General Salih bin Ali Al-Mohayya received today at his office here, the Commander of the Jordanian Naval forces, Major General Dhari bin Rajeb Al-Zubin.
During the meeting, they exchanged cordial talks and reviewed a number of issues of common interest between the two countries.
The reception was attended by Commander of the Saudi Naval forces General Fahd bin Abdullah bin Mohamed and Jordanian Military attaché to The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Brigadier Yahya Obadiah.
479,249 pilgrims reach Madinah
By SPA
Madinah : According to a report of the Hajj committee of Madinah, 479, 249 pilgrims arrived here up to yesterday.
As many as 209, 743 left Madinah and 269, 447 are still remaining in the city.
The pilgrims, who have come to Madinah included 57, 169 Indonesians, and 33, 362 Iranians.
Yesterday 10, 417 pilgrims left Madinah via Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport aboard 39 international flights.
Up to yesterday, 422 flights operated from Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Airport carrying 101, 149 pilgrims.
Four killed in Baghdad
By Xinhua
Baghdad : At least four people were killed and seven injured when a suicide bomber blew himself up at the Iraqi Army headquarters during a celebration to mark the Army Day in Baghdad's Karrada neighbourhood Sunday.
"A suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest blew himself up at an army headquarter, near the municipal council of Karrada, during a celebration to mark the Iraqi Army Day," an official told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.
US considering covert push within Pakistan: NYT
By IANS
New York : In response to intelligence reports that Al Qaeda and Taliban are intensifying efforts to destabilise the Pakistan government, the US is considering conducting aggressive covert operations in the country's tribal areas.
Vice-President Dick Cheney, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and President George W. Bush's senior national security advisers met Friday at the White House to debate expanding the authority of the CIA and the military for the purpose, The New York Times reported.
At least 12 persons killed in accident in Pakistan
By SPA
Islamabad : At least twelve persons were killed and thirteen others wounded when a passenger Bus rammed into a stationary trailer in Pakistan's Punjab province Sunday, police said.
The Bus, which was going to Karachi from Peshawar, hit the trailer on the Indus highway near Makhdoom Morr.
The injured persons were shifted to Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Rahim Yar Khan.
Palestine PM Slates New Israeli Attacks
By Prensa Latina
Ramallah : Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayad affirmed Saturday that with the recent aggressions against occupied territories, Israel tries to discredit the government of the Palestinian National Authority.
The cabinet chief issued a release announcing the cancellation of an Egypt visit to attend an extraordinary meeting of the Arab League foreign ministers Sunday. The objective of the meeting is to analyze the crisis in Lebanon and the Israeli expansionist policy.
Israel may free Barghouthi for Gilad Shalit – army
By KUNA
Ramallah : Israeli Deputy Defence Minister Matan Vilnai said on Saturday that Israel might free Palestinian popular prisoner Marwan Barghouthi in exchange for an Israeli soldier captured by Hamas in 2006.
U.S. soldier killed by roadside bomb in Iraq
By SPA
Baghdad : A U.S. soldier has died after being hit by a roadside bomb in Iraq's restive Diyala province, the U.S. military said Sunday.
The soldier died on Saturday when the bomb detonated near his vehicle during an operation in the province northeast of Baghdad, the military said in a statement quoted by the Associated Press.
Israeli air strike kills Palestinian in Gaza
By SPA
Gaza City, Gaza Strip : An Israeli air strike in the northern Gaza Strip early Sunday killed a member of the Popular Resistance Committees, a group allied with Hamas, Palestinian officials said.
The strike came hours after the group said it fired a barrage of rockets into Israel.
The Israeli military said the aircraft fired at two armed men seen in the area from which rockets had been fired earlier and one of the men was seen to be hit, according to a report of the Associated Press.
Chinese Foreign Minister phones Pakistani FM
By SPA
Islamabad : Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi phoned Caretaker Pakistani Foreign Minister Inamul Haq, according to an official statement.
"China believes that under the leadership of President Pervez Musharraf and the Pakistani government, the Pakistani people can overcome temporary difficulties and remain united so as to maintain social stability and national development," Yang Jiechi said.
The Two foreign ministers exchanged views on Pakistan's current situation.
Iranian delegation to promote trade and investment
By SPA
Riyadh : Riyadh's Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host on Monday an Iranian trade delegation to facilitate opening up new avenues of cooperation between private sectors in Saudi Arabia and Iran.
The delegation, comprising officials of 29 companies with varied interests and fields of works, will focus on reviewing prospects of enhancing the volume of the bilateral trade and exploring new avenues of investment opportunities, according to a report of the Chamber.
Report on Non-Arab African countries’ pilgrims released
By SPA
Jeddah : The Guides Establishment for Non-Arab African pilgrims rendered its services to pilgrims from more than 40 Non-Arab African Countries during Hajj of this year, said a report released here today by the Establishment.
As many as 51 Non-Arab African pilgrims died and 191 pilgrims were admitted at the holy sites' hospitals. Of the admitted cases, 132 men and women pilgrims received medical care and were discharged from hospitals, the report said.
Saudi Aramco plays major role in Asia Pacific Oil and Gas Conference
By SPA
Jakarta, Indonesia : Saudi Aramco representatives played a large role in the recent Society of Petroleum Engineers’ (SPE) Asia Pacific Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition (APOGCE) held in the Indonesian capital.
More than 10 SPE papers and presentations were delivered by Saudi Aramco organizations, and a keynote address was given by Saudi Aramco chief petroleum engineer Khaled A. Al-Buraik.
Iran has no plans to normalize relations with U.S.
By RIA Novosti
Tehran : Iran does not intend to restore diplomatic relations with the U.S. broken in 1979, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said Sunday.
"We have no plans to normalize relations with the U.S.," Mohammad Ali Hosseini told journalists, adding that "because the U.S. is continuing its hostile policies against Iran, normalization of relations with the U.S. is not on Iran's agenda."
Russia sees international efforts as key to Mideast settlement
By RIA Novosti
Moscow : Moscow has urged the world community to continue joint efforts in tackling the Middle East crisis under the UN aegis, a Russian deputy foreign minister said on Saturday.
On January 23, the UN Security Council (UNSC) will convene to discuss the situation in the region after the U.S.-sponsored Annapolis Middle East conference, which resulted in an agreement between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian National Authority (PNA) President Mahmoud Abbas to resume peace talks, stalled seven years ago.
Afghanistan sets up panels for women’s rights
By Xinhua
Kabul : The Afghanistan Ministry for Women Affairs has constituted two new organisations to protect women's rights, a local newspaper reported Sunday.
The two new sets-up 'Healthy Family, Happy Society' and 'Law and Women' are aimed at eliminating violence against women and establish a healthy and prosperous society, Afghanistan Times quoted Minister for Women Affairs Hosn Bano Ghazanfar as saying.
The 'Healthy Family, Happy Society' will involve religious leaders in various provinces to sensitise people on women rights.
Morocco has interesting opportunity to be ‘healer’, ‘unifier’ in Middle East, US President
By NNN-MAP
Washington : Morocco has an interesting opportunity to be a healer and a unifier in the Middle East, mainly because of the presence of a large Moroccan Jewish community in Israel and in the north African Kingdom, said American president George W. Bush on Friday.
Al-Qaida videos now on cell phones
By NNN-Antara
Cairo : Al-Qaida video messages of Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahri can now be downloaded to cell phones, the terror network announced as part of its attempts to extend its influence.
The announcement was posted late Friday by al-Qaida's media wing, al-Sahab, on Web sites commonly used by Islamic militants. As of Saturday, eight previously recorded videos were made available including a recent tribute to Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the former al-Qaida in Iraq leader killed by U.S. forces in Iraq in June 2006.
Magnitude-5.7 quake jolts Banda Aceh
By NNN-ANTARA
Jakarta : An earthquake measuring 5.7 on the Richter scale jolted Banda Aceh, Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam province, at 3.01am on Sunday.
Gian of the Meteorology and Geophysics office (BMG) said the epicenter of the earthquake was located at 6.11 degrees north latitude and 93.49 degrees east longitude, some 204 km west of Sabang.
The earthquake took place in a depth of 10 km under the sea level.
Gian said the earthquake did not have the potential to trigger a tsunami.
US Predident says his trip to Middle East aimed to promote peace
By NNN-WAFA
Washington : US President George W. Bush said Saturday that his trip to the Middle East next week aimed to promote peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians.
"This is a region of great strategic importance to the United States, and I'm looking forward to my visit," Bush, who leaves Jan. 8, said in his weekly radio address.
Bush said he planned to push Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and President Mahmud Abbas to make progress on peace talks restarted at a US-championed conference in Annapolis, Maryland.
American Consulate in Basra attacked by mortak shells
By NNN-KUNA
Basra : Iraqi police command in Babel province said on Saturday that the American Consulate in south west of Iraq was attacked by mortar shells by unknown armed men.
Armed men fired mortar shells targeting the Consulate in Hilla city where damage losses is still being assessed, a spokesman for the Iraqi police command said.
Asian fraud gang arrested in Kuwait
By NNN-KUNA
Kuwait : An Asian fraud and swindle gang was caught in possession of fake credit cards and passports here Saturday, the Kuwaiti Interior Ministry said.
Acting on a tip-off, the General Department of Criminal Investigation stepped up investigations to nab the gang, which dealt in fake credit cards and passports, spokesman for the Interior Ministry Col. Mohammad al-Sabar told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).
Iraqi situation theme of Mubarak-Zebrai talks Sunday
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : President Hosni Mubarak and Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebrai will meet Sunday to discuss the Iraqi situation.
An Egyptian diplomatic source told KUNA that Mubarak-Zebari talks would focus on Egypt's efforts to help in stabilizing and reconstructing Iraq.
Zebrai would underscore the current situation in his country to Mubarak and discuss the possibility of reopening Egypt's diplomatic mission in Iraq.
The fourth run of the three-way US-Iranian-Iraqi talks will also be highlighted in the meeting.
Arab League welcomes army chief as Lebanese president
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : The Arab League Council at the ministerial level Saturday evening welcomed the nomination of army chief Gen. Michel Suleiman to presidency.
This came in a news release issued at the wrapping-up of a consultative meeting held earlier in the day at the Cairo-based Arab League on the latest Lebanese situation.
The council called for electing Suleiman immediately as per constitutional rules.
Once a new president is elected, and a new government is set up, a fresh election law should be enacted, the council said.
Lebanon’s FM rejects foreign interference in presidential vote
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : Visiting Acting Lebanese Foreign Minister Tareq Metri has opposed foreign interference in the election of a consensus president in the country.
He told reporters, following a meeting with Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul Gheit, that the Lebanese constitution provided for electing a president without any interference.
But, he dismissed speculation that the Arab foreign ministers' meeting held here on Sunday could be meant to garner Arab support for a simple majority backing for army chief Gen. Michel Suleiman as a new Lebanese president.
Italian official describes his visit to Saudi as “successful”
By NNN-KUNA
Riyadh : Italy's Deputy Foreign Minister Ugo Intini has described his current visit to the Kingdom as successful and as an extension to the outcomes of the successful visit paid to Italy by The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz.
In a press conference here Saturday, he expressed his country's interest in relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the Kingdom is a major country in the Arab world.
Arab FMs agree on integrated plan on Lebanon
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : Secretary-General of the Arab League Amr Moussa said here on Saturday that the Arab foreign ministers had agreed at the emergency meeting that shifted from a consultative meeting to a formal meeting on an Arab integrated plan unanimously issued with respect to developments in the situation in Lebanon.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah headed the Kuwaiti delegation to the meeting.
Pakistan: nine killed, two injured in Swat valley of NWFP
By NNN-PTI
Islamabad : Nine persons were killed and two others injured as Pakistani security forces continued their operations against pro-Taliban militants in the restive Swat valley of the North West Frontier Province.
Seven members of a family died when their house was hit during overnight shelling by security forces on suspected militant positions at Kabal tehsil in Swat. The bodies of two persons, who are believed to have been shot, were also found by security forces, Dawn News channel reported today.
Iran expels German diplomat for “undiplomatic activities”
By Xinhua
Tehran : Iran was expelling a German diplomat for "undiplomatic activities," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini told reporters during his weekly briefing on Sunday.
"The relevant (Iranian) authorities recognized that this diplomat was engaging in undiplomatic activities and should leave the Islamic Republic immediately," Hosseini said.
But he did not say if the German diplomat had already left Iran and did not give any additional information.
Israel to negotiate core issues with Palestine
By Xinhua
Jerusalem : Israel and the Palestinians will form a special committee for talks over the core issues of their conflict, local media reported Sunday.
The committee, led by Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni and former Palestinian prime minister Ahmed Qurei, will allow the two sides to engage in a real dialogue, an Israeli senior political source was quoted by local daily Ha'aretz as saying.
Arab FMs call for swift consensus on Lebanese presidential election
By Xinhua
Cairo : Arab foreign ministers on Saturday evening called for a swift consensus on Lebanese presidential election to choose army chief General Michel Suleiman as president, the Egyptian MENA news agency reported.
After a consultative meeting of Arab foreign ministers, the Arab League Council agreed on an overall plan to solve the Lebanese crisis, calling on all parties in Lebanon to reach an immediate agreement on forming a national unity government in line with the constitution.
Lebanon seeks Arab help in political crisis
By Xinhua
Beirut : As political impasse is escalating, Lebanon is hoping that Sunday's Arab foreign ministers' meeting can help resolve the crisis and lead to the long-waited presidential elections.
The Lebanese government has prepared a document that it will present at the Arab foreign ministers meeting, which is scheduled in Cairo on Sunday, the English Daily Star reported on Saturday.
Palestinian militant killed in Israeli shelling in Gaza
By Xinhua
Gaza : One Palestinian militant was killed and three others wounded on Saturday night in an Israeli artillery shelling on the northern Gaza Strip town of Beit Hanoun, paramedics and witnesses said.
The witnesses said that a group of militants were launching homemade rockets from Beit Hanoun into the southern Israeli town of Sderout.
Paramedics said that they picked up the body of a Palestinian, and three others wounded right after the Israeli artillery strike, adding that they were taken to the hospital for treatment.
Iran protests against Norwegian official’s comments on execution of young Iranian mother
By Xinhua
Tehran : Iran on Saturday protested against Norwegian foreign ministry official's comments on its recent execution of a young Iranian mother, the official IRNA news agency reported.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad Ali Hosseini strongly rejected recent remarks by Norway's State Secretary Raymond Johansen as "not conforming to diplomatic norms" and "unacceptable."
Abbas to hold talks with Saudi king ahead of Bush Mideast tour
By Xinhua
Riyadh : Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah bin Abdel-Aziz met here Saturday with visiting Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to coordinate their stance over the Middle East peace process ahead of U.S. President George W. Bush's coming visit to the region.
King Abdullah and President Abbas discussed the latest developments following the recently held U.S.-sponsored Annapolis conference on the Mideast peace, said the Saudi state news agency SPA.
Musharraf vows support for Scotland Yard in Bhutto death probe
By Xinhua
Islamabad : The detectives from Scotland Yard, now in Pakistan to assist with the probe into the recent assassination of Benazir Bhutto, would be provided maximum support and information, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf said Saturday.
"Maximum support and information would be provided to the Scotland Yard team for them to carry out the investigation independently," local TV Dawn News quoted Musharraf as saying.
UAE, Japan sign pacts to set up joint ventures
By IANS
Abu Dhabi : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Japan have signed several economic pacts to boost bilateral trade, said WAM news agency Sunday.
"The UAE was keen on encouraging the private sector to create joint ventures to take advantage of the huge investment potentials in the UAE and Japan," the news agency quoted crown prince of Abu Dhabi as saying.
Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met Japanese delegation Saturday comprising Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Akira Amari at Palace Hotel here.
Clashes between Sudanese tribe, rebel forces kill 16
By Xinhua
Khartoum : Fresh clashes between a nomadic tribe and former rebel group have claimed 16 more lives with the toll reaching 25 in the past three days in southern Sudan, official SUNA news agency reported Sunday.
Mukhtar Babunimer, the emir of the Masirria tribe, was quoted as saying that 16 people were killed and nine wounded in the clashes, which took place Friday at al-Jarf area.
He said that the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA) was gathering forces north of the borders between northern and southern Sudan, known as the Jan 1, 1956 boundaries.
Abu Dhabi to spend $200 billion on urban development
By IANS
Abu Dhabi : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital plans to spend $200 billion over the next five years in an ambitious plan to develop its infrastructure, WAM news agency reported Sunday.
The government's share would constitute 40 percent of the total spending while the remaining would come from the private sector, according to Falah Mohammed Al Ahbabi, director general of urban planning, executive affairs authority of Abu Dhabi.
Bhutto medical report fraught with lacunae: experts
By IANS
Islamabad : The medical report of slain former Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto is fraught with lacunae as doctors at the Rawalpindi General Hospital acted "unprofessionally" while writing it, medico-legal experts say.
"The doctors could have done a much better job by simply sticking to the basics like writing a proper medico-legal report mentioning the precise nature of injuries, description of wounds and kind of weapon (bullet, shrapnel or other possible object)," Dawn newspaper said Sunday.
Amnesty asks Dhaka to try its liberation war criminals
By IANS
Dhaka : Global human rights watchdog Amnesty International (AI) has asked Bangladesh's caretaker government to try its "war criminals" - those accused of collaborating with the Pakistan government during the liberation war in 1971.
"We want the present government to initiate some process. The future democratic government will have to take the issue forward. But some steps regarding that should be taken at this moment," Irene Khan, AI secretary general, told media here Saturday.
Risks to Pakistan’s economy rising: report
By IANS
Karachi : Key indicators recorded a significant decline during the first quarter of the current fiscal and the resulting imbalances could have adverse consequences for the Pakistan economy, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has said in its quarterly report.
"Risks to the economy are increasing as it is clear that neither the global nor the domestic economic environment is as benign as in the past years," the SBP July-September report said, adding that the political uncertainty ahead of the general elections was impacting on investor sentiment.
Move to send Hasina abroad for medical treatment
By IANS
Dhaka : Personal physicians attending on jailed former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina plan to appeal to the government to send her abroad for medical treatment.
Hasina's eyes and ears could face serious damage and she needs intensive treatment, Syed Modasser Ali, one of the four specialists who examined her, told New Age newspaper.
Hasina, 61, sweated profusely in courtroom last Monday and doctors said she had fluctuating blood pressure. She could not attend the court proceedings required for trial in a corruption case the next day.
Lebanon heads towards critical week
By DPA
Beiru : Lebanon's political crisis is heading towards a critical week after all efforts by rival political parties failed to reach an agreement on ending the stalemate gripping the country.
"The country is heading towards 10 critical days," said a source close to the opposition led by Hezbollah, while the anti-Syrian ruling majority repeated charges that the opposition was seeking to change the political System and torpedo the Saudi-brokered Taif agreement, which ended the 1975-1990 civil war.
Ten civilians killed as Pakistan army targets militants
By DPA
Islamabad : At least 10 civilians were killed overnight as artillery shells fired by security forces missed militant positions and landed in a residential area in Pakistan's restive northwest Swat valley, media reports said Saturday.
The rounds destroyed a house in the village of Galooch in the Kabal area, leaving seven members of a family dead, local mayor Jafar Khan told Aaj news channel.
Three houses were destroyed in the nearby village of Kalakalley, Geo TV reported. Three people were killed and a woman injured in the incident.
Russia sees international efforts as key to Mideast settlement
MOSCOW, January 5 (RIA Novosti) - Moscow has urged the world community to continue joint efforts in tackling the Middle East crisis under the UN aegis, a Russian deputy foreign minister said on Saturday.
On January 23, the UN Security Council (UNSC) will convene to discuss the situation in the region after the U.S.-sponsored Annapolis Middle East conference, which resulted in an agreement between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian National Authority (PNA) President Mahmoud Abbas to resume peace talks, stalled seven years ago.
Russian, Libyan navies resume contacts
MOSCOW, January 5 (RIA Novosti) - The Russian and Libyan navies have resumed contacts after a long hiatus when a Russian Navy vessel made a port call at Tripoli, an aide to the Russian Navy commander said on Saturday.
The Ivan Bubnov tanker will stay at the Libyan capital until January 7. It is participating in a two-month patrol mission in the northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean, Russia's first in the past three years, which began on December 5.
Iran urges UN to close its ‘nuclear file’
UN, January 5 (RIA Novosti) - Tehran has asked the UN Security Council to close its 'nuclear dossier' and send it to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran's permanent envoy to the UN said on Saturday.
"The time has come to end the illegal consideration of Iran's nuclear issue at the Security Council, and send the case back to a relevant technical forum, specifically the International Atomic Energy Agency," Mohammad Khazaei said.
German army “horrified” over reckless driving of soldiers in Afghanistan
Berlin, Jan 5, IRNA ,The German army is reportedly "horrified" over the reckless driving of its soldiers in Afghanistan, causing numerous bad accidents in the war-stricken country, the weekly Der Spiegel news magazine cited Saturday an internal document of the German Defense Ministry.
According to the report, the "driving conduct" of German troops is "horrifying."
Trying to evade terrorist attacks, military drivers are often speeding through streets leading to a "massive" accident risk and a worsening of the anti-German mood among Afghans.
70 million illiterates in Arab world
Rabat – (IINA) January 05, 2008 – The number of illiterates in the Arab world rose to 70 million last year from 50 million in 1970, according to the Rabat-based Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO). In a statement issued on the occasion of the Arab Day for Eradication of Illiteracy, ISESCO called for intensifying efforts to bring down the percentage of illiteracy as well as to focus on adult education in this respect.
Scotland Yard detectives to receive all assistance from Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, JANUARY 05 , SPA -- Interior Minister Lt-Gen Hamid Nawaz says the Scotland Yard detectives, currently in Pakistan, would be provided all documents, videos and photographs of the last moments of the public meeting addressed by former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
There will be no influence on these detectives from our side, he told reporters.
The minister said that the Scotland Yard team has formally started work to help probe Ms Bhutto's assassination.
Bush hails Saudi King’s role in supporting Mideast Peace
Washington, January 05 , SPA -- US President George W. Bush has expressed his personal appreciation and admiration for The Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and the role being played by him to support the peace process in the Middle East region.
"I personally appreciate the Custodian of The Two Holy Mosques because he is a person whenever he speaks, everyone listens to him. Moreover, King Abdullah bin Abdul-aziz enjoys my personal respect as well as the respect of the Region's countries," President Bush said.
Scotland detectives visit Benazir killing site, hospital
ISLAMABAD, Jan 5 (KUNA) -- The Scotland Yard detectives Saturday made their first inspection of Benazir Bhutto killing site and hospital a day after their arrival in the country to help Pakistan probe leading opposition leaders tragic assassination.
The seven-member team Saturday afternoon inspected the crime site in Liaqat Bagh area of Rawalpindi city and then later in the evening visited the Rawalpindi General Hospital, where Benazir Bhutto died after inflicting bullet wounds, interior ministry sources told KUNA.
Moussa condemns int”l silence at Israeli violence
CAIRO, Jan 5 (KUNA) -- Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa condemned Saturday the international community's silence at the Israeli atrocities committed against Palestinians, warning that the situation would become worst if the violence were allowed to continue.
He called in a press release the international quartet to immediately intervene in stopping attacks against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and West Bank.
Religious scholars ask Karzai to stop missionaries
KABUL, Jan 5 (KUNA) -- Afghan scholars warned President Hamid Karzai not to allow foreign missions to the country and especially to the far-flung poverty-hit areas in it.
The demand was made in a meeting between the Afghan president and members of the Afghanistan Islamic Council, a pro-government body having the central office in Kabul with its branches in all the provinces.
Two Pakistani Provincial Governors Replaced
ISLAMABAD, Jan 5 (Bernama) -- The governor of North West Frontier Province (NWFP) Ali Jan Muhammad resigned and Owais Ahmad Ghani, incumbent Balochistan governor, has been appointed as NWFP governor in place of him, China's Xinhua news agency reported Saturday quoting state-run PTV as saying.
Ali Jan Muhammad has resigned due to his personal reasons, said the PTV report.
However, some other local media said he quit because of differences over military operations in the troubled tribal regions.
Iran Ranks First In Seven Scientific Fields In Mideast
AHVAZ, Jan 5 (Bernama) -- Minister of Science, Research and Technology Mohammad-Mahdi Zahedi said that Iran ranks first in seven scientific fields in the Middle East, which is good news for country's scientific society.
Speaking at a commemoration service for Hoveizeh Student Martyrs, he said these fields include mathematics, mechanics, polymer, chemistry, chemical engineering, nano technology, and medical engineering.
Palestine PM Slates New Israeli Attacks
Ramallah, Jan 5 (Prensa Latina) Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayad affirmed Saturday that with the recent aggressions against occupied territories, Israel tries to discredit the government of the Palestinian National Authority.
The cabinet chief issued a release announcing the cancellation of an Egypt visit to attend an extraordinary meeting of the Arab League foreign ministers Sunday. The objective of the meeting is to analyze the crisis in Lebanon and the Israeli expansionist policy.
Two American soldiers killed by Iraqi colleague
By Xinhua
Baghdad : An Iraqi soldier shot dead two US soldiers and injured three in the city of Mosul in Nineveh province, 400 km north of Baghdad, on Dec 26, the US military said Saturday.
The incident, in which a civilian interpreter was also injured, took place when the US and Iraqi soldiers were conducting a joint operation.
The Iraqi soldier fled the scene after the attack but was later arrested along with two other soldiers who are suspected of being associated with the incident, the military said.
Palestinian forces arrest 8 Hamas members in West Bank
By Xinhua
Ramallah : Palestinian security forces arrested eight members of Islamic Hamas movement Friday night in West Bank, Hamas said on Saturday.
According to a statement issued by Hamas, the detentions took place in the cities of Jenin and Tulkarem.
The security forces, loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah, have been arresting Hamas leaders and members in the West Bank in response to the Islamic movement's takeover of Gaza by force in June.
Fatah accuses Hamas of doing the same against its members in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip.
Maliki returns to Baghdad after medical tests in London
By Xinhua
Baghdad : Iraq's Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki has returned to Baghdad on Saturday after spending a week in London for medical tests, Iraqi official television reported.
"Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki has returned to the country on Saturday morning from London after having medical tests there," the Iraqi state-run channel said.
The medical tests showed that Maliki is in good health, the channel said.
Hamas rejects Bush’s upcoming Mideast visit
By Xinhua
Gaza : Islamic Hamas movement on Saturday rejected U.S. President George W. Bush's visit to the region which will start on January 10.
"Bush's visit widens the internal Palestinian splitting by supporting one Palestinian side (Fatah) to fight another side (Hamas) and to incite against ending the internal political differences," Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri told reporters.
Palestinian forces arrest eight Hamas members in West Bank
By Xinhua
Ramallah : Palestinian security forcesarrested eight members of Islamic Hamas movement Friday night inWest Bank, Hamas said on Saturday.
According to a statement issued by Hamas, the detentions tookplace in the cities of Jenin and Tulkarem.The security forces, loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah,have been arresting Hamas leaders and members in the West Bank inresponse to the Islamic movement's takeover of Gaza by force inJune.
Fatah accuses Hamas of doing the same against its members inthe Hamas-run Gaza Strip.
Pakistan, Bosnia finalize Free Trade Agreement
By SPA
Islamabad : Pakistan and Bosnia & Herzegovina are finalizing modalities for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to promote trade and investment and increase the volume of two-way trade which is at its lowest ebb at the moment.
Scotland Yard detectives to receive all assistance from Pakistan
By SPA
Islamabad : Interior Minister Lt-Gen Hamid Nawaz says the Scotland Yard detectives, currently in Pakistan, would be provided all documents, videos and photographs of the last moments of the public meeting addressed by former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.
There will be no influence on these detectives from our side, he told reporters.
The minister said that the Scotland Yard team has formally started work to help probe Ms Bhutto's assassination.
Small earthquake shakes Jordanian capital
By SPA
Amman, Jordan : An earthquake registering 4.0 on the Richter scale was felt in parts of the Jordanian capital Saturday, local officials and residents said.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage, the Associated Press reported.
The earthquake struck at 7:30 a.m. local time (0430 GMT) and was centered 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) northeast of Amman, said Darwish Jaser, assistant director general of Jordan's seismology department.
Two American Service members shot dead in Iraq
By SPA
Baghdad : The U.S. military said Saturday that an Iraqi soldier apparently shot dead two American service members while they were on a joint patrol north of Baghdad.
The two U.S. soldiers were «allegedly shot by an Iraqi soldier for reasons that are as yet unknown, the military said in a statement.
The shooting occurred as American and Iraqi soldiers were conducting operations to establish a combat outpost, the military said.
Three other U.S. soldiers and one civilian interpreter were wounded in the attack, the Associated Press reported.
Religious scholars ask Karzai to stop missionaries
By KUNA
Kabul : Afghan scholars warned President Hamid Karzai not to allow foreign missions to the country and especially to the far-flung poverty-hit areas in it.
The demand was made in a meeting between the Afghan president and members of the Afghanistan Islamic Council, a pro-government body having the central office in Kabul with its branches in all the provinces.
Hamas fires 21 mortar shells at Israeli troops in E. Gaza
By KUNA
Gaza : Ezzidin Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, claimed responsibility for firing mortar shells at a group of Israeli soldiers in east Gaza City Saturday morning.
In a statement, the brigades said one of its units fired 21 mortar shells at the gathering of Israeli troops. The shells hit their mark and the activists returned to base safely.
The attack is in retaliation for Israeli incursions into Gaza Strip and the West Bank and the assassination of Palestinian fighters, it said.
Israel continues aggression in Nablus
By KUNA
Ramallah : Israeli forces continued on Saturday a wide-scale military attack in Nablus, northern Gaza Strip, for the third day in a row.
Eyewitnesses said the situation in the city was getting worse, especially because the curfew imposed three days ago was still on, leaving the Palestinians with little food as the aggression took them by suprise.
Although paramedics were able to reach some families and provide them with food, many others were suffering.
Arab FMs hold talks prior to Sunday conference
By KUNA
Cairo : Arab foreign ministers are to meet and deliberate later Saturday, at the Arab League headquarters, on their upcoming formal conference tomorrow focusing on the issues of the political instability in Lebanon and Palestinian territories.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, who had flown to the Egyptian capital Friday, is to take part in both meetings. He called for Arab action in both areas.
Bush optimistic of developing vision of Palestinian state before leaving office
By KUNA
Washington : US President George W. Bush has expressed optimism that the development of a vision of what a Palestinian state would look like "will come into being by the time (he) left office." This came in a roundtable discussion with Arab media representatives in the White House late Friday. The meeting was attended by Kuwait's former Information Minister Dr. Saad bin Tifla Al-Ajmi.
Governor chairs Hajj Central Committee Meeting
By SPA
Jeddah : Prince Khalid al-Faisal, the Governor of Makkah region, chaired here today a meeting of the Hajj Central Committee.
Following the meeting, Secretary of the Committee Mohammed al-Shafi said the committee had reviewed the report submitted by the follow up committee on the performance of the service sectors at the Hajj season.
Prince Khalid asked the concerned authorities to submit their visions for the Hajj season of next year including the seasons of Umrah (the minor Hajj) and the blessed month of Ramadan.
Explosion kills five soldiers in Iraq
By Xinhua
Baghdad : At least five Iraqi soldiers were killed and two wounded when an explosives-rigged house blew up during a clearing operation in a village in Diyala province in north Iraq, the US military said Saturday.
Joint US and Iraqi forces raided Thursday the village of Abu Tamur, 65 km northeast of Baghdad, believed to be a safe haven for Al Qaeda insurgents.
The five Iraqi soldiers were killed and two wounded while they were clearing the improvised explosive device in the house, which detonated during the operation.
Bahrain chosen venue of Ophthalmology Meet for Mideast&Africa
By SPA
Riyadh : The Tenth session of the International Ophthalmology conference for the Middle East and Africa will start its deliberations in Manama, Bahrain, on March 26.
The five-day conference is being convened in the Bahraini capital according to a decision adopted by The Middle East-African Ophthalmology Council.
This was disclosed by the Council's Chairman Dr. Abdulaziz bin Ibrahim Al-Rajihi, who is also a member of the Board of Directors in The Saudi Society for Ophthalmology and Chief of The Information Technology Committee.
Israel Kills Three Palestinians in Gaza
By Prensa Latina
Gaza : At least three Palestinians of the Islamic Resistance Movement were killed on Friday during an Israeli air raid in northern Gaza Strip, security sources reported.
The recent deaths brought the number of Palestinians killed in the last 24 hours to at least 12 and over 50 wounded, in the Israeli army offensives in the occupied territories.
Two of the dead were members of the Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, who were targeted by an Israeli missile dropped from a warplane in Beit Hanoun locality, northern Gaza, said the sources.
Three US Troops Killed in Iraq
By Prensa Latina
Baghdad : Three US soldiers have been killed in Iraq in clashes with resistance forces in Baghdad and Diyala province over the past 48 hours, the occupation command reported.
A communiqué issued on Thursday said that two soldiers were shot to death during an operation in Diyala, in northwestern Iraq.
Another soldier was wounded and was transferred to a US military hospital, added the press release, which did not reveal names.
Ban ‘Deeply Concerned’ By Gaza Civilian Deaths
By SPA
United Nations : United Nations head Ban Ki-Moon is “deeply concerned” by the recent deaths of civilians in Gaza during Israeli army incursions, the Secretary-General’s spokeswoman said on Friday.
“The Secretary-General is deeply concerned at the reported killing of civilians in IDF (Israeli Defense Force) military operations in Gaza. He reiterates his call for full respect by the IDF of international humanitarian law, so that risks to civilians are minimized,” said spokeswoman Michele Montas.
Pakistan PM constitutes Commission to assess damages
By SPA
Islamabad : Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammadmian Soomro has constituted a commission to assess damages and losses caused during disturbances after the tragic death of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, said an official statement.
Over sixty people were killed and public and private property worth billions of rupees was destroyed during the arson in the wake of Ms Bhutto's slaying.
The commission, to be headed by U.A.G. Isani, will have members and representatives of the administration, police and revenue departments.
King approves Northern Areas expansion of Holy Mosque in Makkah
By SPA
Riyadh : The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz has approved the implementation of the expansion project at the northern areas of the Holy Mosque of Makkah.
This was announced by minister of municipal and rural affairs Prince Miteb bin Abdulaziz, who is also the head of the development commission of Makkah, Madinah and the Holy Places.
Saudi, U.S. Universities sign MOU
By SPA
Madinah : The Rector of the Madinah-based Taiba University, Dr. Mansour bin Mohamed Al-Nuzha has welcomed the recent signing by its architecture faculty a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU ) with US Pennsylvania University.
Dr. Al-Nuzha expressed hopes that the MOU will not be confined only to the architecture faculty but also include all specializations in the University.
A delegation of the Pennsylvania University is currently visiting Taiba University. Its members are holding talks with all Deans and Teaching staff of the University.
Syrian and Iranian officials discuss current Mideast situation
By SPA
Damascus : Syrian Foreign Minister Waleed Al-Muallem discussed here yesterday with Ali Larenjani, the representative of the Islamic revolution at the supreme national security council in Iran, the latest developments of the situation in the Middle East, notably in Lebanon and the occupied Palestinian territories.
The Syrian news agency reported that the views of the two sides were identical and that the two countries will continue consultation and coordination.
Larenjani voiced Iran's support to the efforts exerted by Syria to settle the Lebanese problem.
Iran urges UN to close its ‘nuclear file’
By RIA Novosti
UN : Tehran has asked the UN Security Council to close its 'nuclear dossier' and send it to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran's permanent envoy to the UN said on Saturday.
"The time has come to end the illegal consideration of Iran's nuclear issue at the Security Council, and send the case back to a relevant technical forum, specifically the International Atomic Energy Agency," Mohammad Khazaei said.
Iraq still a challenge – UN Sec-Gen
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon said that, despite recent progress achieved at internal security level in Iraq, its environment still represents a challenge.
He pledged, in an interview with the Egyptian daily Al-Ahram published Saturday, to maintain the UN's role as an "objective mediator" in international conflicts.
The UN's main objective is to defend the interests of the Iraqi people, he said and added that the international community was determined to live up to its mission in that country against all odds.